As Sudan's civil war continues to displace millions, Sudanese women fleeing violence are confronting severe challenges, from trafficking to abuse, as they seek safety in neighboring countries. Despite the hardships, many of these women display resilience and determination to protect their families and find a semblance of stability.

Layla, a mother of six, fled her home in Omdurman when the war erupted in 2023. Like many others, her family believed they would find safety and work in Libya. Tragically, their journey was marred by abuse and extortion. After being held hostage by traffickers upon crossing the border, the family faced violence and lived under constant fear.

Similarly, Salma, another Sudanese woman, left Egypt for Libya, hoping for better opportunities. Instead, her family endured harrowing months in a traffickers’ warehouse, experiencing unimaginable cruelty. Salma’s courage enabled her to secure their release, but the psychological scars remain deep.

Jamila, a survivor of previous unrest in Sudan’s Darfur region, believed Libya would offer safety. However, she and her daughters became victims of sexual violence, highlighting the dangers Sudanese women face in their host countries. Discrimination against refugees, compounded by racial abuse, continues to exacerbate their plight.

Hanaa, another Sudanese woman, works tirelessly collecting plastic bottles to feed her children. Despite her efforts, she was abducted, abused, and detained, showcasing the vulnerabilities refugees face even in state-run facilities.

More than 210,000 Sudanese refugees have fled to Libya, according to the UN, with many seeking a safer environment and work opportunities. However, Libya's lack of recognition for refugees, combined with the fragmented governance of the country, exposes them to trafficking, abuse, and systemic discrimination.

Reports from organizations like Amnesty International and Médecins Sans Frontières reveal alarming levels of violence, including sexual abuse, against migrants in both unofficial trafficking hubs and official detention centers. These findings underscore the urgent need for international intervention and support for displaced Sudanese families.

While these stories reveal the immense challenges Sudanese women face, they also highlight their resilience. Layla continues to care for her children despite her circumstances, and Salma has managed to secure temporary shelter for her family. Their courage reflects the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Humanitarian organizations and global leaders are called to address the pressing needs of Sudanese refugees, providing protection, aid, and pathways to stability. By amplifying their voices, the international community can work toward ensuring a future of hope and safety for these women and their families.

Though the journey is fraught with trials, the perseverance of Sudanese women like Layla, Salma, and Jamila offers a poignant reminder of the strength found in humanity’s most vulnerable moments.